From: Lee Corbin (lcorbin@uui.com)
Date: Fri Jun 07 2002 - 13:51:54 MDT
Yes, let's please criticize the Extropian Principles! For any newbie, by the
way, who understands nothing about PCR (Pan Critical Rationalism), criticism
is a *good* thing. It helps something to be criticized. We see the phrase
"constructive criticism" as redundant, because it is in the nature of criticism
that some sticks and some doesn't.
But alas:
Perpetual Progress --
Seeking more intelligence, wisdom, and effectiveness, an indefinite
lifespan, and the removal of political, cultural, biological, and
psychological limits to self-actualization and self-realization.
Perpetually overcoming constraints on our progress and possibilities.
Expanding into the universe and advancing without end.
Self-Transformation --
Affirming continual moral, intellectual, and physical self-improvement,
through critical and creative thinking, personal responsibility, and
experimentation. Seeking biological and neurological augmentation
along with emotional and psychological refinement.
Practical Optimism --
Fueling action with positive expectations. Adopting a rational, action-
based optimism, in place of both blind faith and stagnant pessimism.
Intelligent Technology --
Applying science and technology creatively to transcend "natural" limits
imposed by our biological heritage, culture, and environment. Seeing
technology not as an end in itself but as an effective means towards
the improvement of life.
Open Society --
Supporting social orders that foster freedom of speech, freedom of
action, and experimentation. Opposing authoritarian social control
and favoring the rule of law and decentralization of power. Preferring
bargaining over battling, and exchange over compulsion. Openness to
improvement rather than a static utopia.
Self-Direction --
Seeking independent thinking, individual freedom, personal responsibility,
self-direction, self-esteem, and respect for others.
Rational Thinking -- Favoring reason over blind faith and questioning over
dogma. Remaining open to challenges to our beliefs and practices in
pursuit of perpetual improvement. Welcoming criticism of our existing
beliefs while being open to new ideas.
I cannot find a single phrase---even a single word that bothers me.
Please, can't you? Isn't there some little tiny thing that rubs you
the wrong way? Well, let's hear about it!
Lee Corbin
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